Brexit uncertainty and the online shopping boom have contributed to the current squeeze on storage space throughout the UK, however UK logistics operators requiring a base in Yorkshire have received a timely boost from property specialist Onward Holdings Ltd.
Thanks to significant investment in narrow aisle racking at its warehouses, the fourth-generation family-run firm has increased its pallet capacity by around a quarter, meaning there is space for an extra 10,000 pallets at Onward Holdings’ sites for shipping and storing of goods, creating some spare capacity although the majority is let.
Following the recent launch of Phoenix 66, a brand new, high bay state-of-the-art warehouse unit with yard parking for up to 40 commercial vehicles on the Green Lane Industrial Estate in Featherstone, Onward Holdings can now accommodate over 40,000 pallets at its four main sites; Castleford, Atlas Park near Wakefield, Phoenix 66, and South Kirkby.
In addition, the company now has in excess of 15 forklifts, comprising of narrow aisle trucks, double handlers and reach trucks. The narrow aisle forklifts are a combination of Aisle Masters and Flexi forklift trucks. Electric counterbalance double handlers are supplied by Crown.
Onward Holdings director, Neil Storey, said: “With the current demand for storage showing no signs of easing off any time soon we have to try and ensure that no space is wasted. Investing in narrow aisle racking maximises the number of pallets our warehouses can take for customers and by using specialised forklifts, narrow aisle racking can make the most of the space available.”
Effective space management for maximum operational efficiency is part and parcel of the Onward Holdings package, whether clients require bespoke warehousing or for specialist distribution, the business is renowned for accommodating a wide range of logistical requirements.
Its warehouses are in great geographical position within close proximity to the M62, M1 and A1(M) intersections. Other major transport connections include the East Coast ports and Doncaster/Sheffield and Leeds Bradford airports. The railway freight network via Wakefield Europort is also nearby to make light work of the distribution of goods across a variety of sectors.
Quality warehousing, especially close to excellent transport links, is lagging behind demand due to a proliferation of e-commerce and discount retailers taking up available space. Onward Holdings is helping to meet the requirement for flexible logistics facilities in this vital economic hub.
There has been significant investment by Onward Holdings in Yorkshire warehouse facilities over the years – including the recent construction of Phoenix 66 built to the highest possible standards – which has attracted a wide range of companies to occupy space, bringing a much-needed jobs boost and business to the region.
With continued demand from industrial occupiers in the marketplace, expanding on-site pallet capacity is more crucial than ever. It not only gives businesses room to stockpile and grow in future, but also has the potential to improve operations and distribution processes.
